John Marshall, aka Mr Frugii, is the mastermind behind Frugii Dessert Laboratory and its startling and ever-changing array of unusual offerings, from gin and tonic icy poles to bergamot-flavoured sorbet.

Writing in Kochie’s Business Builders’ top ten listing, Shihana Shahabdeen said Mr Marshall had become obsessed with desserts over the years.

“In 2000, he purchased his first ice cream machine,” she writes.

“This was the start of his ice cream career. He self-taught himself in ice cream and gelato. Through intense research and experimentation, John carefully analysed the art and science of the perfect ice cream. John started giving samples of his ice cream away to people. Then progressed to markets, then finally in January 2015, opened his first store in Canberra.”

Mr Marshall was thrilled about being listed in the top ten.

“I’m wrapped that we’ve been recognised in the article especially because it mentions that we’re in Canberra,” he said.

With flavours changing regularly you need to get in quick to sample Frugii’s unique creations. Mr Marshall recently made a Vegemite ice cream in celebration of Australia Day and the announcement that the brand will return to Australian ownership after being purchased by dairy company Bega.

He’s previously created beer-flavoured ice cream for Canberra’s Beer Day Out along with butter chicken, seafood laksa and other flavours for special occasions.

He will be running a series of ice cream making classes at Frugii Dessert Laboratory in 2017.